Local First launches sustainable business education series

Local First announced the launch of its 2017 Measure What Matters Workshop series, which is part of Good for Grand Rapids and aims to equip Grand Rapids companies with tools and resources to help them create high-quality jobs, stronger communities and a healthier Great Lakes region. The first workshop will take place Tuesday, May 9 at Catalyst Partners from 3-5 p.m. 

“Our Measure What Matters Workshop series provides business owners with the tools, resources and insights they need to use their business to make a positive social and environmental impact in our community,” said Local First President Elissa Hillary. “These workshops are a great opportunity for businesses to get involved with Good for Grand Rapids and receive guidance for using their business as a force for good.” 

Catalyst Partners, consultants in LEED certification and green building design and construction practice, will lead a conversation on “Renewable and Efficient Energy Use.” This workshop will feature a panel consisting of energy experts and practitioners who will share their success stories, energy efficiency resources and the results of their sustainable business practices. Panelists include:

• Kris and Jason Spaulding of Brewery Vivant who will share their journey to renewable energy as a small business (and serve their sustainably produced beer!). 
• Eric Doyle and Keith Winn of Catalyst Partners who will explain how they can help small businesses shift to energy saving practices.
• Bill Wadsworth of Consumers Energy who will highlight the different programs Consumers Energy offers for small businesses, including their Demand Response Program and Energy Efficiency Program.
• Daria Gosztyla of Friends of Grand Rapids Parks who will talk about their Carbon Conscious Program and how it can work for businesses.

“Catalyst Partners is excited to help Local First kick off the first Measure What Matters Workshop of 2017 and educate business owners on creating an energy efficient building,” said Doyle, a senior project manager for Catalyst Partners. “We’re looking forward helping business owners identify ways they can conserve energy while saving operating costs.”

“We want business owners to understand they have options when it comes to reducing their environmental footprint,” said Spry. “Consumers Energy is committed to helping businesses be leaders in energy efficiency, and we’re excited to be part of the Measure What Matters Workshop series.”  

The Measure What Matters Workshop series covers a variety of topics, from sustainability best practices to implementing diversity and inclusion policies. Participants will also learn more about the Good for Grand Rapids campaign and Local First’s Quick Impact Assessment. Below is a list of upcoming Measure What Matters Workshops:

June 21: “Implementing Policies Promoting Inclusion and Equity” at LINC UP
July 19: “The Importance of Diversity in Small Business” at Start Garden
Sept. 20: “Business Ownership Options” at Atomic Object
Oct. 11: “Shifting to Local Supply Chains” at Consumer’s Credit Union (more info coming soon)

Workshops cost $10 for Local First members and $15 for non-members. Register for the May 9 workshop today.  Follow the conversation on Facebook and Twitter #Good4GR